Paul di Resta was hard at work yesterday at the Circuit Paul Ricard, pounding around the French track as he got acquainted with his United Autosports Ligier JS P217.

As he awaits Williams' decision on its 2018 driver line-up, the Scot joined Lando Norris in Southern France as the pair kicked-off their preparation for next January's Daytona 24 Hours.

As a reminder, Fernando Alonso will also join Zak Brown and Richard Dean's United Autosports outfit for the Rolex 24.

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.

Recent Posts

Webber reveals how F1 greats shaped his guidance of Piastri

Mark Webber’s role in Oscar Piastri’s career is not simply about managing the McLaren driver’s…

52 minutes ago

Hot off the press, cool in the cockpit

Had Niki Lauda been given the good fortune to read the next day's newspaper on…

2 hours ago

Ferrari set for emotional Michael Schumacher tribute at Monza

Few places in Formula 1 carry as much emotional weight for Ferrari as Monza, and…

4 hours ago

Red Bull hit with Dutch GP reality check: ‘We’ve taken a step back’

Red Bull has been forced to confront an uncomfortable reality after the Dutch Grand Prix,…

5 hours ago

Verstappen takes on 100 rivals in epic karting challenge

Next month, Max Verstappen will trade Formula 1 for something far closer to where his…

6 hours ago

Hamilton admits he crossed the line in Ferrari radio outburst

Lewis Hamilton has candidly admitted that his frustration boiled over during the Dutch Grand Prix…

7 hours ago